Welcome TV fans! This is the new home for Tube Talk, the place for TV show reviews, celebrity interviews, news & scoop. E-mail Tube Talk Girl at jenbiller@frontier.com or reach her by mail at RR 3 Box 155, Bridgeport, WV 26330.

Monday, March 31, 2008

On Monday’s How I Met Your Mother, within minutes of the mere mention of the Web site http://www.tedmosbyisajerk.com/ by one of Barney’s crazy ex-one-night stands, I hit the ‘net to see if it was indeed a real site. Of course, it was. I expect no less from the entertaining folks that bring us this show.

The site made me howl. It has funny portraits of “Ted,”a catchy background song that explains the entire ordeal, and the letter he left the girl so he wouldn’t have to talk to her again.

For those of you who don’t understand why the site doesn’t read www.barneystinsonisajerk.com, well, it goes a little like this. Notorious womanizer Barney told a woman his name was Ted Mosby and that he was an architect. Needless to say, things didn’t end well, and she launched a Web site to tell the world that he’s a cad.

In addition to this fun interactive Web site, last night’s episode rocked from top to bottom. Barney’s 64-bracket game to chose the “final four” ladies who could be out to ruin him was hysterical.

But one of the highlights of the show for me was Robin pretending to be Barney’s date. I’ve said it before, CBS, please put these two together at the end of this journey. They have off-the-charts chemistry, more than anyone on the show. (Sorry Lily and Marshall fans.)

Unfortunately, we never did find out who the blonde was who was warning ladies to stay away from Barney. I think this show is getting as bad as Lost when it comes to giving us answers. But, the final minutes of the show made up for any anger I had.

In what can only be described as brilliant, the final shot had Barney sitting at his computer, typing, as familiar music played in the background. (Well, familiar if you were ever a fan of the show Doogie Howser, M.D., of which Neil Patrick Harris starred.) He typed his journal thoughts and even did his trademark “Doogie” mannerisms. Of course, he was all Barney, as he typed, “I’m awesome.”

Although NBC has not released an official statement yet, Friday Night Lights cast member Kyle Chandler (Coach Taylor) has said that a deal to renew the show for a third season is in place.

Chandler was a guest on NPR’sFresh Air and broke the news there.

NBC is expected to make the announcement official on Wednesday, in New York, during their new schedule presentation, according to E!Online.

From the hordes of e-mails I’ve received from nervous fans waiting to hear the fate of Lights, I know that many of you are doing the happy dance right now. Don’t worry; there’s no shame. I’m right there with you.

And kudos to all of the Friday Night Lights fans that mounted the fan campaign to “keep the lights on,” despite a certain someone’s comment that we should all just watch 30 Rock. (Yes, Ben Silverman, I’m talking to you.) No, I’m not bitter.

Friday, March 28, 2008

After last week’s episode of Smallville, the bar was set incredibly high for this one to be just as exciting. I expected a lot from this episode, especially since it was originally planned to be the season finale, before the strike was resolved. There were elements that were great (a wet James Marsters, perhaps!) and some that fell a little flat.

The first five minutes set up what the pace should have been for the entire episode. With Brainiac returning and threatening those close to Clark, there really shouldn’t have been room left for any filler scenes. When I say filler, I mean any scene with Jimmy. I guess they wanted to do the whole Lois/Jimmy team up, but I don’t think this episode called for it. Was I the only one who was annoyed by Jimmy’s comment about Chloe rushing to Clark’s side?

I enjoyed the scene where Kara was trying to get Clark to finally take the big leap and fly. I laughed when she tugged at his elbows and he was still incredibly hesitant. I wouldn’t have minded if she had just given him a little shove. It’s been seven years, and it was do or die at that point, especially after Brainiac’s threat. I still wonder if we will ever see Clark really fly. I think I would feel a little cheated if we don’t get that big moment. I’m talking big heroic save, Superman music, the whole nine yards.

The flashbacks to the ‘80s were really well done. It was nice to see young Lex again with little Ollie, Jason, and Patty in tow. I was glad that we were finally going to get some answers to Lionel’s devious past. What are his true intentions? I was never a big fan of Lionel “Mr. Nice Guy” Luthor. I was used to him being the man who constantly had the upper hand. This episode showed a completely different side to him. There must be something truly terrible coming if you get Lionel Luthor on his hands and knees. Speaking of that, how great was that scene? It was incredibly intense with Lionel trying to convince Chloe that he can be trusted. John Glover and Allison Mack were amazing!

I wasn’t shocked when Brainiac decided to brain drain Lana. However, I don’t get why Kara jumped to sacrifice herself. I don’t think Brainiac’s intention was to do that to her. He obviously needs her for something. I have no clue what that is, but I’m open for some theories. It looked like they flew into some kind of other galaxy or universe. I just want to see a lot more of James Marsters. He’s another great foe for Clark.

Lex was a man on a mission last night. He is so close to piecing together the puzzle that was his former best friend. The closer he gets to uncovering the secret, the more evil he becomes. I like it! I feel bad that the little glimmer of goodness in him is fading, but I think we’re coming to the point of no return.

Now, the final scene. I have to say that I teared up. I have come to the conclusion that I can’t see Tom Welling cry. He starts getting weepy, and then the waterworks come on for me. Chloe came into the room, and she immediately broke down seeing Clark like that. Great acting by both Tom and Allison.

Besides the Jimmy and Lois stuff, the episode was pretty good. But I think last week’s “Traveler” has my vote as the best episode so far this season. Smallville comes back on April 17th with five more episodes. I am anxious and curious to see where they go from here. Weigh in with your thoughts on the episode. Where did Kara go? Who was on the phone with Lionel before he took little Lex to Smallville for the first time? Is it just me or does it seem like Lex’s new henchwoman has a thing for him? ‘Till next week.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Thursday, March 27, 2008

So far, fans of the recently canceled NBC show Las Vegas have sent more than 10,000 pairs of booties to the network to protest the cancellation. (It’s a nod to finish the cliffhanger storyline in the final episode that involved one of the show’s main characters going into labor.)

The fan campaign seems to be having some effect. According to a story yesterday at TV Guide online, NBC and Vegas producers have been in discussions to try and give fans an ending they deserve, after five years of loyal viewing. The show’s final episode didn’t tie up loose storylines and ended with a “to be continued” tag, much to the fans’ outrage. (And mine!)

I applaud the efforts of those people who feel so passionate about a television show that they’ll donate cash and take the time to let a network know their displeasure at its decision to end an ongoing-story arc so abruptly. I’ve seen many fan campaigns come and go, from Veronica Mars to Jericho, and sometimes they end by satisfying fans and sometimes they don’t. I hope this time NBC will offer some kind of rewarding conclusion.

I can tell you from the hordes of e-mails and comments I’ve received here at Tube Talk since Las Vegas was canned, fans are angry. And even worse than that, they’re declaring their hesitancy to ever commit to NBC scripted shows again. And who can blame them? No one wants to spend hours and years of their lives investing in shows and characters that can be yanked off the air mid-story with no resolution.

This possible trend of viewers declaring never to watch NBC’s scripted shows again worries me, since I fear that if new scripted shows get low ratings, the network will continue to turn more and more toward ridiculous reality shows that fail to entertain.

So, it seems to me, this is an easy fix. (Of course, no one is asking my opinion or help to broker a deal, but I’m in if they want me!) Plain and simple, NBC needs to give fans a two-hour episode to wrap up the series. That way, fans are at least content. (I won’t say happy, considering they’re going to miss the show next year.)

If the fans get closure with a two-hour episode, that goes a long way in improving public relations and getting TV fans to continue committing to new scripted NBC shows. That’s a win-win, I’d say, and a move I don’t think NBC can risk not doing, for the sake of its future shows.

Well, we knew Chikezie wouldn't last much longer. And while it was sad to see him go and he kind of got robbed of at least being in the top eight, he did have a good run. We think that there are only positive things in his future. He is such a nice guy. Good Luck Chikezie! OK, moving on.

Do you think Brooke White is getting tired of seeing her flub over and over again? At least she is graceful about the whole thing. And are we the only women out there that think David Cook is totally hot? Who cares if he is a man-diva!

We are wondering if Simon has caught on to all the gossip about David Archuletta's dad being a bulldog stage dad. The comment about him picking that song out himself seemed to hit home, and we agree. Why would a 17 year old pick "You’re the Voice?” He was born in 1990, so he had numerous song choices, though we can't see him singing "Poison" by Bell Biv Devoe or "Cradle of Love" by Billy Idol, so maybe he chose just about as good as he could have.

One last thought before we sign off for the week. We just can't seem to understand why people are keeping Kristy Lee Cook and Ramiele around. We haven't picked on Ramiele too much, but she just seems to have this doom-of-gloom cloud hanging over her head. Come on, show some excitement for once! It has gotta be that crummy site that wants you to vote for the worst contestant that is keeping Kristy on the show. Maybe next week, we can kiss her good-bye.

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Last night, the contestants on American Idol sang songs from the year they were born and made us feel a bit old, too.

While Kristy and David Archuletta made us feel like we were on an easy listening show and Chikezie, Jason Castro, and Ramiele failed to impress, there were a few notable performances.

Carly impressed us with her version of "Total Eclipse of the Heart." And we felt that the judges were a bit harsh with her.

Michael Johns was awesome again with Queen's "We are the Champion," and Brooke White's version of "Every Breath you Take" showed us once again that even though she might have stumbled in the beginning, she has wonderful talent.

But we cannot end here. No. Last night, David Cook performed "Billie Jean," and it was the best performance we have seen out of him yet. If this is him now, we can only imagine what this guy will do once the show is finished.

The Office returns with the first of six new episodes on April 10 (YAY!), and to celebrate I recently had the chance to chat with Rainn Wilson (Dwight Schrute) and executive producer Greg Daniels.

The two were kind enough to do a conference call with reporters from across the country. The interview was EXTREMELY long, as reporters from TV Guide, E!Online and Access Hollywood and a plethora of other media outlets took turns asking every question an Office fan could possibly conjure. I’ve posted some of the most interesting tidbits.

The result is an interesting read with plenty of scoop. For example, did you know that Wilson used to work in an office? Funny coincidence, no?

I got Daniels to spill on a possible return for Karen. The two also gave their thoughts on the Office fan convention earlier this year and some future storyline tidbits that are coming up. For those of you who don’t like spoilers, proceed cautiously. There are a few light ones peppered throughout the interview.

Here are the highlights:

Jennifer Biller: Hi guys - love the show.

Greg Daniels: Thanks!

Jennifer Biller: I guess this question is for Greg, unless Rainn, you know some inside scoop. My readers love Karen. Will she be making any upcoming appearances in the next six episodes or beyond that?

Rainn Wilson: Well I think that she’s - yes, she’s coming back as Dwight’s love interest for the finale, right? Yeah.

Jennifer Biller: I love it.

Rainn Wilson: Please write that in. Thank you.

Greg Daniels: I think she’s fantastic, too. And we’ll see what happens. We had a nice deal with the people that did the show that she’s currently on to use her in the beginning of this season. And I think we have one more ability to use her as part of this arrangement that they made.

Question: I’ve been looking forward to this dinner party (episode on April 10.) It’s been about four months now when I think I first heard about it. Can you give us clues to anything in the episode?

Greg Daniels: Well, that’s a very kind of a charged situation where Michael has been asking Pam and Jim to come have dinner with him and Jan over and over, and over again. And he finally manages this, through this kind of scam, to destroy all their excuses. And it just happens to be after the previous episode, which is when he went to New York to try and help Jan with her deposition, and he kind of blew her wrongful termination lawsuit. So there’s a lot of tension between them in that episode. And coming up we have some episodes that follow off on that. Some of them involve the character of Ryan, whose website initiative started the season off and is kind of crumbling underneath him and has gotten, for some reason, infested with sexual predators. And we have episodes coming up where Dwight and Michael are going to have joined Ryan in some of his club-hopping New York partying and try to get involved in his life a little bit more. But there’s some cool, weird things happening that I can’t talk about and, you’ll just have to see it to truly enjoy all the twists and turns.

Q: Have you ever worked in an office when the acting work got thin? And if so, what kind of office worker were you? Were you a Dwight or a Jim, or a Ryan, or what?

Rainn Wilson: I’ve worked in many offices before, in my New York days of being a starving actor. I worked in a major New York charity as Assistant Office Manager and Special Events Coordinator. And I was also…

Greg Daniels: Assistant to the Officer Manager and Special Events Coordinator or Assistant Office Manager?

Rainn Wilson: Thanks, Greg. That was a good setup. And then I was also a receptionist from the Pam Beesly mold at Kirshenbaum, Bond & Partners, an advertising agency in New York.

Q: So you were the office Pam?

Rainn Wilson: I was Pam… I guess I was most like a Jim because my heart really wasn’t into it. But I was also very capable which is a lot like Jim, too. But I guess I’m proud of the fact that in my past I was actually a really good waiter. I was an excellent waiter. Like I could have really gone somewhere as a waiter. And I was pretty decent in my office work, too. I was not very good at Marine Supply delivery, which I did for about eight months at (Ballard Marine Supply & Hardware). I got in a couple car accidents and kept losing stuff.

Q: Is there going to be any love interest for Dwight that will be introduced right now because right now Angela has kind of moved on, or she’s trying to move on, and it looks like it’s just breaking Dwight’s heart. Do you think that he’ll have a love interest come in and try to make Angela jealous?Greg Daniels: (To Rainn) Well, do you remember in your audition when you improv’d some of his ex-girlfriends? Because we’ve always had that on the board and that, it's part of his character that he has some exes out there.

Rainn Wilson: Yes, I improvised in the audition for the pilot. We had an improvisation of me and Jenna, and I told her that I had an ex-girlfriend who was stationed in Kuwait City, you know, as a reservist. So I don’t know if that is coming into play, but ex-girlfriends - yeah. I think we’ll be seeing a lot more sides - a lot more facets of Dwight when it comes to dating and women. I want to say that this is something that I love about this show is that, every season, - even every couple of episodes - there’s always some new aspect of Dwight that Greg and the writers want to explore. And that’s such a rare thing, you know. So many shows have their comic sidekick character and they do XY and Z. But I get emotional stories and comedic stories, and family stories, and lots of different textures. And I really appreciate getting to do that as an actor.

Q: (Are there) any plans or at least any intention to have the characters see the documentary that’s been filming in their office for the last three years, and what kind of reactions do you think that would have?

Greg Daniels: I think it’s great. We have talked about it. I don’t think we’re there yet, but I definitely love it as a big kind of game-changing story move. But, hopefully when we do press that nuclear button, it’ll be prepared for and people will think it’s worth it. Well, there’s certain things that we have, like in our back pockets, and I feel like if we ever got to a place where we were discussing storylines and we just had nothing, then we would say all right.

Rainn Wilson: I think it’s hard. I’m just speculating here because I know nothing about those conversations. But I think once they see the documentary and you kind of deal with the fallout of that, I don’t know how much longer you can then continue storylines, you know, with all the characters kind of being in the public eye and stuff like that.

Q: I’ve been lucky enough to sit through the Scranton convention, and I was curious. A lot of the actors have said that they had this great adrenaline rush and the writers coming back from that convention and were really kind of gung-ho. And then all of a sudden the strike hit at the exact same time. So, were you able to kind of recapture that at all when you guys got back? Is there anything from the convention, from being in Scranton that you’re going to add?

Greg Daniels: Sure. The convention was very fun, and it was a real wonderful experience to see how many thousands of fans came from all over the world and there were people from Ireland and Oregon. People came from a really great distance. And this was my first time in Scranton, although we’ve done so much research on the Internet. And I was really struck by how beautiful Scranton is, which is not what we really have been portraying, and there’s a lot of weird kind of Scranton-specific things that we saw, that will I’m sure come into different episodes. And the entire writing staff was there, and they all had different experiences driving around and going to Scranton bars and meeting the policewomen. So I think it was very good for the creativity of everybody here.

Rainn Wilson: Really it’s a lovely town. Like there are big old buildings, 100 years old, all over the downtown, big brick buildings that have a really cool industrial look and a lot of iron work. And stuff like that. And there are beautiful hills all around Scranton. It’s like down in this little valley, and there’s lovely trees and hills all over the place. A very green city.

Q: Greg, do you have a favorite Office character that you like to write stories for? And I know it’s kind of awkward with Rainn right here, but you can be candid. Is there anybody that you really enjoy writing stories for?

Greg Daniels: Well I do love the Dwight character, I have to say - and especially writing the Talking Heads, you know, the interview segments with Dwight… There is something of that character that I really respond to. There was this special on the Discovery Channel, a couple of weeks ago, which I spent an hour taking notes on and being really fascinated by, which was the ten greatest threats to the world, from robots that come alive to the mega volcano, to new diseases and everything. And it was so great. And eventually this will filter its way into Dwight’s brain, I think.

Q: Those talking heads segments, are those mostly scripted or is it kind of half scripted, half improvised?

Greg Daniels: There’s usually a script to start from. And then the directors ask questions. And some of the actors, like Rainn, for example, will sometimes write stuff on his own and come in with them.

Rainn Wilson: Mostly, it’s just a wealth of riches, and the writing is so good and so funny. There’s so many times I go in, and I can’t imagine even changing a word. It’s just, you know, perfect…

Greg Daniels: And yet you do.

Rainn Wilson: Recently, I’ve just been taking to saying them because they’re just so spot on and you can’t really improve on it. I think the writers would like to write for Creed a lot more. I think - my sense is that, you know, Creed works best in some little doses here and there. But I think the writers really get off on how crazy that man’s brain is.

Q: Is that a fine line for you to walk because if you make Dwight too ridiculous, then the comedy kind of falls apart? We have to believe that he is employable, too.

Rainn Wilson: Yeah, just the other day I was shooting a scene with Steve. All I had to do was run into Steve’s office, and then I ran into Steve’s office - into Michael Scott’s office as Dwight. And I turned to Steve, and I was like wow, I just ran into your office like I was a cartoon character. And I was like why am I doing that? This is a documentary about a guy who works in an office.

Greg Daniels: I’ll tell you one thing, though…I was in the other room listening with all the writers, and I don’t know exactly at which run, but (Jen Salata) said, "Oh my god, Rainn just did the funniest run." And she was saying that was her favorite part of the whole scene.

Rainn Wilson: And that’s probably the one you’ll use. But, yeah, we always do that. We kind of check in with each other, and we’ll go oh right, we’re not doing a comedy. Like let’s tone down the broadness here and make it more real. And of course, the editors always use the broadest takes that we ever do.

Greg Daniels: Well the thing is, when you look at a real office, once you get to know the people who are in the office, you realize how bizarre they can be. I think that it certainly has been my experience. I remember finding out about these women that used to work with my mom who were also bikers. And you just couldn’t write some of the stuff that they were doing because it would just seem too implausible.Q: Greg, you made a couple of interesting tweaks for this season - one, putting Jim and Pam back together. Did you know that that was what you were going to do all along when you broke them up? And the other one is bringing in Ryan as a new irritant. Were those also looking to the long haul?

Greg Daniels: Well I don’t really see much more than about a half a season ahead. That’s how far the headlights go on this bus. Jim and Pam never were together before. This is the first time that they’ve gotten together. They were almost together. And, certainly we didn’t have it planned in Season One, what was going to happen to them. I know what’s going to happen to them for the next maybe ten episodes. But that’s about as far as I can see. (As for Ryan) I thought of that some time in Season Three. He seems like a funny statement about corporate America, just how the guy with a business school degree manages to rise.

Q: Is there any hope for Dwight and Angela? Could there be reconciliation?

Greg Daniels: Where there’s life, there’s hope.

Q: A Star Trek actor once told me that the best part of having his own action figure is that he could play with himself in public. What do you think of having your own bobblehead? Is it great, is it surreal, what?

Rainn Wilson: Can I use that line? I walked by the NBC store in New York, and there’s a wall of Dwight bobbleheads in the windows. It’s the number one selling thing in the history of NBC Universal merchandising. And it’s pretty crazy. I feel like Mr. Potato Head, you know. I think in the future I will be known not for the character of Dwight, but just for the bobblehead. And I think, in the far future humanity -- like ten thousand years from now – they’ll uncover Dwight bobbleheads and think that I was a great leader of men.

Last night, you sent the two least-talented dancers home from Dancing With the Stars: entertainer/illusionist Penn Jillette and tennis-great Monica Seles.

No amount of magic tricks could convince the audience that Jillette could actually dance. I’m not sorry he’s leaving. I don’t think there has ever been a more annoying contestant on the show. Jillette constantly interrupted the judges during their critiques, by trying to make jokes and get laughs. Then, he jokingly tripped going up the stairs. He wasn’t funny, and his partner Kym Johnson looked like she wanted to tape his mouth shut as much as I did.

Monica Seles, on the other hand, was every bit a pleasure to have on the show. She was elegant, sweet, and really came out of her shell on Monday to do a sexy, sultry number. It wasn’t up to the level of the other dancers, as she just seems to be an awkward mover, but hey, she tried. It was refreshing to see someone who was so at the top of her game in one area, not be able to master another physical challenge. It’s inspirational to us common folk to realize that celebrities aren’t always good at everything, even when they’re gorgeous and seem to have skills the rest of us don’t. Monica gets an A for effort, and I wish her well.As for the rest of the dancers, I think it’s obvious who is the best this year. Kristi Yamaguchi and partner Mark Ballas earned the highest first-round scores in the history of the show, straight nines for both dances. It’s rare to be able to pick the best dancer so early in the competition, but wow, she can dance. There is no question.

So, I’m officially endorsing Ms. Kristi as my pick. Yes, I know that Jason Taylor is pretty and can move, too, but it’s time a woman won this thing! And Kristi is the best we’ve ever had. She and Mark just look fantastic together. I was worried that she wouldn’t be able to pull off the sexy, mambo, but she tossed out that prim, proper elegance she’s known for and got all kinds of wild sexy for the number. But, dance lovers, you MUST vote for Kristi, if you want her to stay. (Wow, I just sounded like co-host Samantha Harris there, Sorry.) We’ve seen plenty of talented ladies leave early (Hello, Sabrina Bryan and Stacy Keibler) because people thought they were so good they didn’t need votes. So, please, vote for Kristi, people, every week. We haven’t seen a female take home the mirror ball trophy since Kelly Monaco in season one, and then the DWTS folks had the audacity to make her dance again for it and crown a guy the champion. Enough! This is our year. Come on ladies; make me proud. I’m starting to think this show is sexist.

Other great performances this week were Jason Taylor, or “King of the Mambo,” as the judges named him and Shannon Elizabeth’s impressive quickstep. I enjoyed Taylor’s dance, but I think Elizabeth should have earned equally high marks as he did. Her dance looked much more difficult, and she was so precise, hardly breaking hold the entire time. Taylor had some mambo moves, but I didn’t think he was better than Elizabeth. He seemed to do a lot of long-stretch holds and poses, while his partner Edyta Sliwinska flitted around him. He’s capable of great dancing though, so I look forward to next week.

Mario also did a good job, and I loved Marissa Jaret Winokur’s energy. And Marlee Matlin continues to impress. How a deaf person can dance that well is a mystery to me. I also love her partner Fabian Sanchez. He’s a cutie with a great attitude. Well done, DWTS, for replacing Maks with this guy.

Next week, I’m hoping Adam Carolla hits the road. He’s up for the second most annoying contestant ever, due to his comments back to the judges and his constant attempts to be funny.

Note to DWTS folks: Please stop casting comedians. It’s much more enjoyable to watch people that are naturally funny, such as Helio Castronveves, George Hamilton and Jerry Springer than those who think it’s their job to crack jokes every three minutes. We’ve got host Tom Bergeron for that.

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

I know many of you tuned in to How I Met Your Mother last night to see Britney Spears do her guest role as a receptionist. But, I hope you stayed because of the fantastic performance of Scrubs guest star Sarah Chalke.

It’s not often that I beg. But, here I go. CBS, please, please, please, for the love of all that is right in the zany world of television, make Sarah Chalke’s character, Stella, Ted’s future wife and the mysterious “mother” we’ve been hearing about for so long.

Chalke was brilliant in the role of Ted’s new doctor. And talk about chemistry. Sorry Robin Sparkles, but even you couldn’t outshine Stella.

The clues are there that Stella may be the future Mrs. Ted Mosby. She attended the same St. Patrick’s Day party that Ted did, and I’m betting that yellow umbrella belongs to her. I’m not sure how Chalke could possibly manage doing the role on Mother while working on Scrubs next season, but I hope somewhere, somehow, it happens.

As for the much-ballyhooed Britney guest role. It was anticlimactic, to say the least. She only had a few lines, but she did a decent job. And thank you Britney, for not chewing gum or talking with that weird accent.

I’m just sad that Britney got all the ink from the TV press for last night’s episode, when Chalke rightly deserved the press. She stole the show. And that’s not all. Stella stole Ted’s heart and mine, too.

Monday, March 24, 2008

For those of you who couldn’t score a ticket to the highly anticipated Buffy the Vampire Slayer reunion at the Paley television festival in Los Angeles last week, I’ve got you covered.

No, I couldn’t attend either, but I have a few blogger friends and fellow TV critics that did.

The first big news was that despite being on the attendee list, Alyson Hannigan and Eliza Dushku didn’t make it. Sorry, Willow and Faith fans.

The other big news is that despite not being on the attendee list, David Boreanaz didn’t do his much-talked-about taped video for the panel. Did Angel lose his soul again? That’s the only reason I can think of that explains why Boreanaz wouldn’t take a few minutes to tape a message to say hi to the millions of fans and his former cast mates that helped jumpstart his career. Yes, I’m a little bitter.

For those of you who want to see some of the Buffy panel, check out the Paley Web site, that features video highlights of the event. It’s good stuff.Why the Paley folks didn’t do a live streaming video of this event is bewildering. Instead, they chose to do that for the Gossip Girl panel. Huh?

From all my discussions with those “in the know,” the Buffy event was the most popular panel in recent years and sold out faster than Spike could transform into his fang face. But, instead, they chose Gossip Girl to stream live. Yes, that makes sense. I’m still on the bitter pill.

Meanwhile, for those of you who want to live vicariously, here’s a roundup of some of the most detailed recaps of the Buffy reunion from fellow TV critics and bloggers. Enjoy.

This Tuesday, March 25, will be the final episode, according to CBS entertainment boss Nina Tassler.

Despite an incredible fan campaign last year that sent more than 20 tons of peanuts (8 million nuts) to the network and brought the show back from initial cancellation, this time, it seems the cancellation is final. (The nuts campaign was based on a line from the show, where a character remarked “Nuts!” in what was going to be the final episode last year.)

Here’s the official statement from Tassler:

"Without question, there are passionate viewers watching this program; we simply wish there were more. We thank an engaged and spirited fan base for keeping the show alive this long, and an outstanding team of producers, cast and crew that went through creative hoops to deliver a compelling, high-quality second season.... We're proud of everyone's efforts."

The bottom line is that Jericho did not deliver the ratings CBS had hoped this season, after its heroic return.

Fans of the show, I empathize with your loss, but you should take some solace in the fact that your fan campaign last year gave you a satisfactory ending to your show. The poor fans of Las Vegason NBC (including me,) on the other hand, aren’t even getting that.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

Once again we were tormented by yet another Beatles week. Why? What is the point? Last week was not a great week for anyone, the viewers included, so why subject everyone to another week of it? We are asking - no begging - please move on from the Beatles!

With that being said, this week’s performances were terrible. By terrible, we mean gut-wrenching, dry-heaving, eye-pulling-out, terrible. The show wasn't worth watching. The best performers were far and few between.

David Cook, did an OK job. We would like to see him without his rocker-diva-like style for a change, though. We know, he is a rocker dude, you can't change that, and we love him for that; it would just be nice to see something different once in awhile. Reports all over the Internet say he has become worse than J. Lo before her twins were born. When he starts demanding only red M&M's, then we’ll really be worried. Please David, don't get too cocky right away.

Carly wasn't as bad as Simon made her out to be. She can sing. We think Beatles’ night and her weird outfit just got the best of her. It was really shocking to see her in the bottom three. We just wonder: was she really in the bottom, or was it a ratings/shock thing by the Idol producers?

David Archuletta wasn't even that bad. And you know that most of the contestants had to be pretty mediocre for us to say that. Our problem is, he can only sing ballads. We don't think he has the personality or voice for mainstream music. Plus as we have said it before, we "hear" his dad is a beast of a stage dad. That only spells disaster.

The bottom three this week were Carly, Amanda Overmyer, and Kristy Lee Cook. We were sure that America would finally send Kristy home. While we know we’ve been hard on her, and we will admit, she has an OK voice, she simply cannot keep the beat and does not perform well. When Ryan said "Kristy, the fans want you to stay," we screamed, "No we don't! Your the only person who likes her Ryan!" Regardless of that fit, Amanda was the next contestant voted off Idol.

Over the past few months, Amanda has fallen short of the expectations we had of her in the beginning, and we knew that she probably wouldn't make it into the top eight. But to send her home before Kristy? What is going on with that?

We would just like to say this to all the lucky people who actually go out and see the Idol tour. Let us know how Kristy does during those shows, since you will have to suffer through her, even after the show is finished.

Let's hope that next week the Top 10 will get their games back and that Kristy will get voted out. See you then.

The buzz out of yesterday’s Friday Night Lights panel at the Paley Festival in Los Angeles is that the show is returning next season.

Can I get a “Woo Hoo?” Or several if you prefer to get out your pom-poms and do a happy dance.

I’ve been hesitant to report any news that the show was possibly being picked up, until something was official, but all sources say it’s happening. E!Online’sKristin Dos Santosheard the scoop straight from one of the cast member’s mouths.

Allegedly, DirecTV is working a deal with NBC to help keep the show on the air. According to TV Guide’sMichael Ausiello, FNL would air on NBC and DirecTV “concurrently.”

I’m positively giddy at the though of one of television’s best drama getting another season. The minute I hear confirmation that the show has indeed been renewed, you’ll be the first to know. I promise!

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Last night, the ladies took the floor. And figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi showed her dance skills aren’t limited to the ice rink.

Yamaguchi earned the highest score of any contestant, male or female, with a whopping 27. Judge Bruno said it was one of the best first-round performances he’d ever seen and declared it “absolutely wicked.” I agree. Yamaguchi had beautiful lines and stunning moves, not a shock to anyone who has ever seen her skate. The question is will America vote for her, or will she suffer the Sabrina Bryan syndrome in that people think she’s so good she won’t need the votes or that her past experience gives her an unfair advantage? Time will tell.

Everyone was waiting to see deaf actress Marlee Matlin take the floor, and ABC took full advantage of that by making her the last female celebrity to dance. Way to force folks to watch the whole show, ABC! Matlin was great. Bruno said he counted throughout her number and she barely missed a beat. She received a standing ovation, as did Marissa Jaret Winokur and Priscilla Presley.

The biggest surprise of the night was that Presley, the oldest contestant, was one of the best dancers. The woman can move! Now, if they could only get her to smile and look like she’s having a good time. She so serious and tense I thought she was going to break out in tears at any moment. Dancing is fun, ‘Cilla, embrace it!

Someone who did embrace the dance was Marissa Jaret Winokur. What a fun, spunky gal. And she can dance! I never thought it was possible for anyone to smile more than former champ Helio Castroneves, but this girl did it. She is the definition of the word “inspiring.” I’m guessing she’s a double-digit size, not the typical size two we’re used to seeing on the show, yet she signed up for this competition that will force her to wear skimpy, body-baring costumes and compete against women who look like they stepped off a runway. You go girl! Her effort brought the crowd to their feet for a standing ovation. She could be a fan favorite. I know she’s one of mine already. That said, I have to chastise her partner Tony Dovolani for his choreography. They were doing the cha-cha, but he turned the number into a hip-hop piece, with hardly a cha-cha anywhere in sight. Sigh. Why, Tony, why? The girl can dance. Give her a shot. This isn’t the first time I’ve had issue with Tony’s choreography. When he was partnered with Stacy Keibler, I often thought he didn’t match the routine to her talent. What gives?

Shannon Elizabeth was the first contestant to dance, and she did a decent job. She was really stiff at times, though. But, her legs are incredible. Plus, she’s a lot of fun. Her tomboy gung-ho attitude made her quite charming to viewers.

Monica Seles looked beautiful in her “princess” gown, a nod to the fact that she never got to go to her prom due to her professional tennis commitments. However, her dancing left much to be desired. She’s such an awkward mover, I’m not sure she can turn her tennis skills into ballroom skills. She gets a 10 for effort, though.

My final comment isn’t about the dancers but co-host Samantha Harris. No offense to Harris, but as a viewer I sometimes have trouble understanding her. She seems to swallow her words, not to mention that she constantly awkwardly cuts off the contestants mid-sentence. I’m begging ABC. Please, please, please bring back Drew Lachey as a co-host. He has great comic rapport with host Tom Bergeron, and unlike Harris, he seems so at ease talking with the celebrities.

On Monday, the results of this week’s dance will be revealed and one female and one male will go home. I’m guessing it will be Seles and Penn Jillette, but I could be wrong.

So, who are you rooting for, now that we’ve seen all the contestants dance? Share your picks in the comments below.

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

My favorite guilty pleasure returned last night, and it was a chance to meet the men of the Dancing With the Stars competition. From what I saw, I think a guy may win again this year.

Three men in particular were fierce: R&B singer Mario, NFL star Jason Taylor, and actor Christian de la Fuente.

Mario has moves that would make anyone blush. Did you see that hip action? Wow! He definitely has the hip-hop element, but I’m not sure how that will translate into the more formal ballroom dances.

Jason Taylor is the guy to watch. He has all the tools; he just needs to practice and improve. He’s shockingly elegant to be so large. His arm and leg extensions were gorgeous, and his posture and frame were perfect. He just needs to work on the performance element that makes it look like he’s having a good time. Taylor could go all the way. He has the football fan base that served Emmitt Smith and Jerry Rice well, and Taylor is a good dancer.

Cristian de la Fuente certainly has the moves, but his attitude was a put off from the get-go. Can you say cocky? The minute he saw that Cheryl Burke was his partner, he commented that they had a chance to win. Perhaps it wasn’t meant to be a slam toward the other pro female dancers, but it kind of came across that way. He had great moves, but his posture needs work. His shoulders were constantly hunched down. But, I’m sure Burke will whip him into shape in no time.

The entertainer of the night proved to be the loveable Steve Guttenberg. No, he didn’t have the technicality and precision of some of the other guys, but the man entertained the audience. His smile is infectious. He’s this year’s George Hamilton, when it comes to mesmerizing the crowd. His dance skills need work, though, so hopefully, he’ll get to stick around long enough to refine them.

As for Penn Jillette and Adam Carolla, well, let’s just say they’re awkward movers and leave it at that. Jillette moved his feet well, but his upper body was so stiff and his moves so stompy that Bruno compared him to Shrek. (An accurate description in my opinion.) Carolla didn’t fare much better. He was as stiff as Frankenstein and ended up with the lowest score of the evening, despite being paired with two-time champ Julianne Hough.

Here’s a note for Jillette and Carolla, please STOP talking back and over the judges. There is nothing more annoying. We know you’re trying to be funny, but it just comes across as obnoxious. Believe it or not, we actually want to hear what the judges have to say, and it’s hard to do that when you’re cutting them off. I’d be happy to see either of these guys depart.

The ladies dance tonight. The fun and skimpy costumes start at 9 p.m. on ABC.

Monday, March 17, 2008

The most famous zip code in the world may be getting a do-over. The CW network recently announced plans to develop a spinoff of the wildly popular teen drama Beverly Hills 90210.

No, that isn’t a typo. I’m a little stunned, too.

It’s been more than a decade since Dylan, Brandon, Kelly and the gang ruled the ratings. So, way to strike when the iron is hot, TV executives.

I hate to see one of my favorite teen dramas of the ‘90s become a do-over. Have we learned nothing from the recent makeovers of Bionic Woman and Knight Rider? Plus, 90210 was an Aaron Spelling show. Few have ever come close to capturing the Spelling magic on primetime, and I’m nervous that the CW is going to try.

There is no word yet on whether any of the 90210 alumni would be on board with this. Ian Ziering and Jennie Garth recently appeared on Dancing With the Stars and still look great, so I suppose it’s possible that they could be the parents of some pretentious teens on a spinoff.

I truly hate it when networks or movie studios try to recapture the magic of a belovedTV show. It rarely happens again. However, the good news about this endeavor is that the CW has tapped writing genius Rob Thomas to create the spinoff.

For those of you who don’t know, Thomas brought us one of the smartest, most clever TV heroines to ever grace the small screen: Veronica Mars, as well as other shows such as Cupid. With Thomas behind this project, I cannot dismiss it. I’d follow Thomas to the ends of the Earth to get a glimpse of anything he writes or produces.

I’m not sure why the CW is willing to launch a new show like this, though, when it canned Veronica Mars, which told the story of a normal girl who lived among the California wealthy. It would be hard to top that amazing series with any new endeavor. And my apologies to all of you Gossip Girl fans out there, but that show doesn’t come close.

Stay tuned for more news on this project. There is no word yet on whether sideburns will be a requirement for the male cast members.

If you’re not out drinking green beer tonight, then I’ve got another way for you to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Why not spend it with Barney, Ted and the rest of the How I Met Your Mother gang?

The show returns tonight with an all-new episode that looks to be “positively delicious.” (For that joke to work you need to say it with the Irish Lucky-Charms-guy accent.)

In tonight’s episode, Ted decides to follow in Barney’s footsteps to celebrate the holiday. Will Barney be full of blarney? Will Ted survive or end up bolloxed? (That’s drunk for those of you who don’t speak Irish slang.)

Get ready to shimmy, shake and gyrate. Or if you prefer not to dance along, sit on your sofa and watch celebrities in skimpy costumes.

Tonight, Dancing With the Stars returns to ABC at 8 p.m.

It’s too early to pick a favorite, but I think everyone is expecting Gold medal winner Kristi Yamaguchi to do well. She obviously has some dance experience. (She dances on ice skates, people, so how hard can a ballroom floor be?) Plus, she’s an athlete, and historically, they always do well in the competition. (Hello Emmitt Smith, Apolo Anton Ono, Helio Castroneves, Jerry Rice and Laila Ali.)

The big buzz this season is that for the first time one of the contestants is deaf: Marlee Matlin. I know plenty of you will be tuning in to see how she’s going to do.

Check back tomorrow for my take on this new crop of celebrities and their dancing skills, or in some cases, lack thereof.

Friday, March 14, 2008

Last night, Pete Ross returned to Smallville, and massive product placement reared its not-so subtle head. (Hey, do you think Stride gum was a sponsor?)

When I heard that Pete was making his comeback for the first time since season three, I was thrilled. Of course, I was under the assumption that we were going to get tons of scenes with the old Torch gang back together. Nope, not a single one. I was holding out hope for Clark, Chloe, and Pete to have at least a farewell moment, but it never came. That was disappointing, to say the least.

I didn’t think it was going to be all hugs all the time, but because of the kryptonite-laced gum (was this a recycled season one plot?) Pete was pretty much awful to Clark. I guess I had expected him to return with a more meaningful purpose. I did like that Pete still had hostility toward Lionel and Lex. Apparently, Clark and Lana don’t hold any bad feelings toward Luthor, Sr, or he wouldn’t have been sitting in Clark’s kitchen having a cup of coffee, with Lana of all people.

There wasn’t a lot of Chloe in this episode, which was a little odd. I liked that she had a verbal sparring match with Lex in the Daily Planet office. Every time we get to see Chloe at the Daily Planet in reporter mode is a great thing. Allison Mack and Michael Rosenbaum always have top-notch scenes together. (Hear that CW?)

Kara still had amnesia and forgot that she was crushin’ on Jimmy. I had thought that there was still some sparkage in the opening concert scene. But Kara seemed to have Lex on the brain. He’s the only one she feels she can trust. Obviously, she has no idea what she’s doing. It also appears that Jim Bob is bored and wants Chloe back. For the love of all that is good television, please do not put those two back together!

Can someone explain to me Clark’s reasoning for not telling Kara who she really is? I don’t understand why he would take Lionel’s advice and keep it secret. Does he think she’s a flight risk (no pun intended)? With Clark not telling Kara, it’s only pushing her further toward Lex. He’s closer than ever to Clark’s secret.

Lionel’s a liar. I know, what a surprise! He had Kara’s bracelet not so safely secure in a safe, which Pete got his stretchy hands on. After that scene, the look on Clark’s face when Lionel helped him was awesome! “You and I need to talk.” Oh yeah!

Next week’s promo looked amazing! It looks like poor Clark is trapped in a kryptonite Rubik’s cube. Was that Chloe in the Fortress? I have a feeling that we are in for a memorable episode. ‘Till next week!

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

It seems the TV world is buzzing about Britney Spears’ upcoming guest role on the CBS sitcom How I Met Your Mother.

To all of you, I say, “STOP IT!”

I think we need some clarity here, people. Do we really want to encourage media attention of Spears starring on one of the few good sitcoms we have left?

Why the HIMYM people thought this was a good idea is beyond me. I assume it must be the thoughts of big ratings. The very fact that Spears will be on the episode, however, doesn’t entice me to watch it, in fact, just the opposite. I’m so sick of seeing Spears’ face in newspaper, magazines and on TV, that I feel like there is no way to escape it. And now, it’s invading the one place I take solace - my beloved den of escapism - scripted television shows.

Before you fire off the hate mail to me, hear me out. No, I haven’t seen the episode, and I’m sure it will be good, considering the brilliant writers on this show. But, do they really need to invite this kind of media attention? This show is better than a cheap casting stunt. And no offense to Spears, but the last time I checked, she isn’t an actress.

It’s been reported that the Spears camp approached the folks at HIMYM for the role, so I guess I should take comfort in knowing that they didn’t seek her out. But, frankly, I hate that stunt casting is creeping in to How I Met Your Mother. I don’t want the show to turn into Will and Grace.

All reports from the HIMYM set are that things went well during Spears’ taping. There is, however, a strange and funny story at E!Online about how Neil Patrick Harris wasn’t allowed on the stage one day because he didn’t have the right security wristband (a security measure that came along with Spears, so that tabloid reporters couldn’t sneak onto the set.) Harris eventually got someone to believe he was actually one of the stars of the show and made it in, he said. Sounds like something that would happen to his character, Barney, doesn’t it?

I’m hoping this stunt casting is a one-time gig and that the show will get back to focusing on the characters I love. And, oh yeah, finally tell us who gets to be the mommy of Ted’s future children!

The good news is that Scrubs’ Sarah Chalke is also headed for a guest role on HIMYM. Now, that’s some casting news I can get behind. Will Chalke be the mom? I can only hope.

Thursday, March 13, 2008

TV Guide’sMichael Ausiellohas confirmed the news that Scrubs will definitely make the move to ABC next season for 18 episodes.

That sound you hear – it’s me popping the champagne.

When I originally posted the news in February of the possibility of Scrubs jumping from NBC to ABC, NBC was reportedly fighting the move. In this week’s updated story, Ausiello did not discuss the details of how it all worked out and why NBC let Scrubs go.

The skeptic in me wants to question the deal and is worried that this could end up in a lawsuit, but the TV fan in me just wants to celebrate that the doctors of Sacred Heart will live on for another season on a network that hopefully will appreciate its comedy genius.

Each year, we, like many, hold out the hope that a new year will bring back the original American Idol: A show that wasn't just a popularity contest, but a singing contest as well. Unfortunately, the 2008 season doesn't seem to be panning out any different than the last couple years.

We understand that David Hernandez wouldn't have been crowned "American Idol," but in no way shape or form should he have been the one to go last night. We don't think his "OK" performance was as bad as some of the others. Did his scandalous past do him in? We doubt it. The show is a popularity contest, and shame on us for thinking that it would be any different this year.

Kristy Lee Cook had one of the worst Top 12 performances ever on American Idol. She just plain sucked. Now don't be offended by this, because deep down we all know it is true. She even knew how bad she did. And it wasn't just this week either. For the past couple weeks, she has flopped. Unless she can really up her level this week and keep the people who did vote for her calling in repeatedly, then she "should" be the one to go next.

Amanda Overmyer should have been in the bottom three this week, too. We just don't get her. She did have a strong resemblance to Michael Keaton in Beetlejuice, though. Maybe that's why she stayed on.

Syesha and Ramiele both are very talented ladies, BUT unless they can stand out, their stay will be a short one, also.

We would like to see Michael Johns do another fine performance, comparable to his "Light My Fire” one from a few weeks ago. We know he has it in him to blow us away again.

Brooke White was excellent. Her rendition of "Let it Be" with the piano accompaniment was one of the best performances, and we think that she could potentially take it all, if she can keep up the good work and keep her fan support.

David Cook rocked on as usual. Though we hear he is becoming quite the diva on the Idol set. Hmmm, we hope that isn't true. Divas never do well with us.

One more note. Is it just us, or is anyone else out there tired of hearing how wonderful David Archuletta is? He obviously is not the singer everyone thought, and he is not mature enough to handle all of the fame and fortune that "could" come if the teeny boppers keep on calling in and he is crowned "Idol superstar." Some could wonder, does he really want to be a superstar, or does his dad want to be a stage dad to a superstar?

Next week will be a dull week without hunky David Hernandez there to watch. Hopefully, Kristy's "fans" will realize that she just can't cut it and will send her home. And lets pray that we don't have to sit through another Katherine McPhee performance again. All we can say about that is "no wonder her record label dropped her."

Sorry about all the bitterness folks. We will get over it shortly. Enjoy Brooke's performance of "Let it Be."

Over the past several months, I’ve received numerous e-mails from One Tree Hill fans wanting the scoop on the annual James Lafferty (Nathan Scott) charity basketball game in Wilmington, NC.

I’m pleased to report that this year’s game will take place on April 26th.

So, One Tree Hill fans, I think I speak for all of you when I say, “Road trip!”

The folks over at http://www.othfans.com/ are going to have all the details about the event, as well as information on ticket sales, as soon as it is released. So, check their site for the latest news.

I’ve heard from several of you who have attended the previous four games and it sounds like a truly fun event for fans. Most cast members usually participate, and fans get plenty of shots to take pictures. Plus, it’s Nathan Scott, sweaty and shooting baskets. Does it get any better?

Friday, March 07, 2008

Last night’s Lost felt like an hour with the ghosts of Others’ past. First, it was Tom, and then it was Goodwin. Remember the guy that Ana Lucia killed? Turns out he was married to a woman named Harper, the Others’ own resident therapist. Like Juliet said, “It’s stressful being an Other.” Then we found out that Goodwin was having an affair with the baby doctor, much to Ben’s annoyance.

Since this was a Juliet-centric episode we got to see a lot of Elizabeth Mitchell. She is such an amazing actress. It’s always great to get to know more about her character. I just wish we got a little more than we did. We found out that she had an affair with Goodwin and that Ben has a freaky crush/obsession with her. I kind of already guessed that one. The question is why? Who was the ‘her’ that Harper was referring to when she was saying who Juliet looked like?

Ben just keeps getting more and more creepy. That scene when he brought Juliet to Goodwin’s dead body displayed it. One minute he’s yelling at her saying that she belongs to him, the next he’s calm, cool and collected and telling her to take her time with the body. If you look at Ben, he doesn’t seem like a threatening guy, but it’s not his physical appearance that freaks people out. It’s the way he looks at you like he knows your every thought. Of course, he uses that to his advantage, much like he is doing with Locke.

The newbies, Dan and Charlotte, made a run to ‘The Tempest’ to apparently disarm a deadly gas Ben could use to kill the people on the island. I still don’t get why these people are on the island in the first place. According to Ben, the person running their boat is Charles Whitmore, Penny’s father, and he wants to exploit the island. But do I really want to believe anything Ben says? Not really. There’s always more to the story.

After Dan stopped the gas and all was resolved, Juliet told Jack that he shouldn’t be around her because Ben thinks that she’s his. Then they shared a kiss, which I’m sure left Jacket fans were rejoicing everywhere.

This was a heavily dramatic episode, but I can always count on Sawyer and Hurley for dishing out some comic relief in the last moments. When they were playing horseshoes and Ben walked past them, without a care in the world, carrying sheets and telling them he’d see them at dinner. The look on Sawyer’s face was priceless. It was like, ‘What the ?’ Too funny.

Next week, we will know who the complete Oceanic Six are. I think I know who the man on the freighter is that’s working for Ben. I’m super excited about it! What was your take on last night’s Lost? Weigh in with your thoughts. ‘Till next week.

Commentary with a Co-Ed is a weekly column at Tube Talk new every Friday.

Last night we said adios to four more contestants and narrowed our group of American Idol hopefuls down to 12.

Hitting the road, for obvious reason, were Luke Menard, Kady Malloy, and Danny Noriega AKA Jessica Alba/Miley Cyrus. Can we get a "Thank ya Lord!" We don't think we could have handled Danny's demeanor another week or his text talk either.

The big shock of the night was Asia'h Epperson getting the boot. We thought for sure that she would outlast Amanda Overmyer or Kristy Lee Cook. But alas we were wrong. This just goes to show you that you never know with this show. Whether it was because of her performance Wednesday, her clothing choices, or maybe her fans thought she had the top 12 all wrapped up, we won't ever know. Point being, you gotta vote for your faves; they say it really works!

But the show must go on. We did however take a huge sigh of relief when our men David Cook and Michael Johns' names were called safe and when Brooke White got the nod to take a coveted position in the Top 12. Whew!

Next week the real competition will begin, or should we say, the popularity contest hits full throttle. We will be back then, to give our views on who rocked it and who bombed it. Have a great weekend y’all!

Thursday, March 06, 2008

Last night it was the ladies turn to sing the '80s and to put it bluntly, they put us to sleep, literally. Yawn.

We just don't understand what happened. We know that there are several girls with terrific voices, but we were treated to performances that were mediocre at best.

Brooke White and her rendition of "Love is a Battlefield" was the only highlight of the evening. She gave a good performance that was unique and worthy of the top 12.

For everyone else, it was like they thought, "We know we are good; we don't have to try." Not good enough, ladies! The guys set the bar really high and we expected the girls to come out and totally smash that, but they failed. Even Carly failed to impress. And, seriously, what was she thinking with those pants? While we are on the clothing rant, who is dressing Asia'h? That's all we need to say about that.

Amanda's performance of "I Hate Myself for Loving You" was better than the previous weeks and Ramiele Malubay's rendition of "You're the Only One" wasn't too bad either, but was it enough to push them into the top 12? We aren't sure.

Kady Malloy is probably going to be sent home tonight. And, frankly, we are OK with that. She should have gone last week, over Alaina, but with this show you never know.

It was funny too see Paula jamming out though. At least someone enjoyed the performances!

Tomorrow we will have the recap of who was sent home, and who will be the top 12. Meanwhile, enjoy this encore performance of David Cook singing "Hello." It totally rocked.

Wednesday, March 05, 2008

The guys are working it, well at least most of them are. Last night, it was guys’ night and ‘80s night all rolled into one.

Lets just start off by saying "Those guys are good!"

With the exception of a couple, the guys were smoking. And we mean smoking. Michael Johns, David Hernandez, Jason Castro and the top performer of the night, David Cook, were all on fire.

Unfortunately, Luke Menard did not impress us. He was a little too George Michael for our tastes. Danny Noriega, was a bit too sassy to our Simon. And Chikeze failed to impress us, just a bad song choice on his end. And while we do agree that David Archuletta is talented and does sing well, he is just plain boring.

Luke will definitely hit the road. But as to who will accompany him, we aren't sure. It should be Danny, but he seems to have a bit of a cult following. Of course you never know with this show. We will say though, that after this week, it will be hard to pick because the majority of them are so talented.

The girls have huge shoes to fill tonight. We aren't sure if they are up to it though. We are thinking that this might be a guy’s year on Idol.

Tuesday, March 04, 2008

The CW is sticking with several fan favorites next year. The network announced some early pickups on Monday and has renewed Smallville, Supernatural, Gossip Girl, Everybody Hates Chris, America’s Next Top Model, and One Tree Hill for next season.

I’m over-the-moon that Smallvilleis sticking around, despite this season’s uneven performance thus far. I have faith the show will find its niche again.

But, I have to be honest. I think the One Tree Hill gang is staying a little too long at the party. Last season I raved about how good the show was. This year, it’s been almost torturous to watch, with most of my favorite “adults” no longer on the show (Whitey, Deb, Karen and Dan.) Sorry, OTH fans, but this Peyton/Lucas love story has been so overhyped as the central storyline, that I lost interest about two episodes in. Choose Lindsay already and move on!

There is no word yet on whether Aliens in America and Reaper will get another season. Stay tuned.